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Exam Information
Official specifications published by ACSM
Exam Format
165 min
115 total (100 scored, 15 unscored/pretest)
550 (scaled)
Entry-Level / Foundational
Registration
Pearson VUE or online proctoring
Validity
3 years
ACSM-GEI Exam Topics and Domains
ACSM-GEI is organized into 4 weighted domains.
1
Class Design
30%
Establish the purpose, and determine objectives of, the class based upon the needs of the participants and facility layout
Knowledge Statements for Class Purpose and Objectives
- Identify factors used in determining the purpose of a group exercise class
- Differentiate types of group exercise classes (land-based, water-based, equipment-based)
- Recognize types of equipment used in group exercise settings
- Assess participant characteristics such as health, fitness, age, sex, ability
- Identify health challenges and special needs in a group exercise setting
- Evaluate environmental factors relating to safe participation
Determine class content (warm-up, conditioning, cool-down) to create an effective workout based upon the objectives of the class
Knowledge Statements for Class ContentSkill Statements for Class Content
- Understand the physiology of warm-up, conditioning and cool-down
- Apply training principles including FITT to class design
- Select appropriate training formats for class objectives
- Modify classes for participants with varying needs and learning styles
- Understand the role of music in group exercise
Select and sequence appropriate exercises to provide a safe workout based upon the objectives of the class
Knowledge Statements for Exercise Selection and SequencingSkill Statements for Exercise Selection and Sequencing
- Select appropriate exercises for each class phase
- Apply cardiovascular and muscular conditioning principles
- Understand neuromotor fitness components
- Apply basic kinesiology principles to exercise selection
- Assess risks associated with various exercises
- Sequence exercises effectively with smooth transitions
Rehearse class content, exercise selection and sequencing and revise as needed to provide a safe and effective workout
Knowledge Statements for Class RehearsalSkill Statements for Class Rehearsal
- Demonstrate proper exercise execution
- Apply verbal and non-verbal cueing techniques effectively
- Modify class design based on rehearsal outcomes
- Match movements to music phrases and counts
- Select appropriate teaching styles for different class modalities
2
Leadership
25%
Create an exercise environment to optimize participant adherence by incorporating effective motivational skills, communication techniques and behavioral strategies
Knowledge Statements for Motivational EnvironmentSkill Statements for Motivational Environment
- Apply motivational techniques to optimize adherence
- Understand and apply behavior-change models (SCT, HBM, TTM)
- Demonstrate effective verbal and non-verbal communication
- Foster group cohesion and positive exercise environments
- Provide constructive and appropriate feedback
Respond to participants' concerns to maintain a professional, equitable environment by using appropriate conflict management or customer service strategies
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Conflict Management
- Apply conflict resolution techniques including active listening and mirroring
- Follow facility policies for conflict management
- Demonstrate empathetic listening skills
- Select appropriate resolutions for participant concerns
Educate participants to enhance knowledge, enjoyment and adherence by providing health- and fitness-related information and resources
Knowledge Statements for Participant EducationSkill Statements for Participant Education
- Understand basic functional anatomy and biomechanics
- Apply basic exercise physiology principles
- Communicate nutrition and weight management basics within scope
- Identify when to refer participants to medical professionals
- Apply stress management principles
Promote healthy lifestyle practices to class participants
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Healthy Lifestyle Promotion
- Promote healthy lifestyle practices appropriately
- Recognize symptoms of overtraining and inadequate nutrition
- Address body image concerns with sensitivity
- Apply behavior-change strategies individually
- Make appropriate referrals for unhealthy behaviors
3
Instruction
30%
Prepare to teach by implementing pre-class procedures (organizing equipment, music, room setup)
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Pre-Class Procedures
- Implement proper pre-class setup procedures
- Operate audio and exercise equipment correctly
- Evaluate and adapt the class environment for safety and comfort
- Deliver appropriate pre-class announcements
Demonstrate safe and effective exercise technique in accordance with industry standards and guidelines
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Exercise Technique
- Demonstrate proper alignment, form and technique
- Identify high-risk exercises and movements
- Correct improper exercise form effectively
- Demonstrate appropriate exercise progressions and modifications
Monitor participants' performance to ensure safe and effective exercise execution
Knowledge Statements for Performance MonitoringSkill Statements for Performance Monitoring
- Monitor exercise intensity using multiple methods
- Recognize signs and symptoms of overexertion
- Differentiate normal and abnormal physiological responses
- Teach participants self-monitoring techniques
- Apply criteria for stopping exercise participation
Incorporate verbal and non-verbal instructional cues to optimize communication, safety and motivation
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Instructional Cueing
- Apply all seven cueing techniques appropriately
- Correct participants' performance through cueing
- Instruct participants in self-regulating exercise form
- Balance safety and motivational cueing
Modify exercises based on participant and group needs to ensure safety and effectiveness
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Exercise Modification
- Modify exercises based on environmental conditions
- Apply modification techniques (tempo, range of motion, load)
- Adapt exercises for varying participant abilities in real-time
- Manage class time effectively while accommodating modifications
4
Professional Responsibilities
15%
Evaluate the class environment to minimize risk and optimize safety by following pre-class inspection procedures
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Environment Evaluation
- Apply facility standards and guidelines for safety
- Understand relevant regulations (ADA, CDC, OSHA)
- Conduct pre-class environment evaluations
Inform participants of classroom safety procedures and exercise and intensity options to minimize risk
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Safety Communication
- Communicate safety procedures to participants effectively
- Observe and monitor participant compliance
- Reinforce safety precautions through cueing during class
Provide recommendations and/or modifications to address populations in different health states such as pregnancy or acute or chronic diseases
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Special Populations
- Identify common health conditions and contraindications to exercise
- Modify exercises for populations with different health states
- Apply criteria for stopping exercise participation
- Communicate exercise risks for common health conditions
Monitor sound levels of vocal and/or audio equipment following industry standards and guidelines
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Sound Management
- Apply appropriate vocal projection techniques
- Operate sound projection equipment properly
- Maintain safe volume levels per industry standards
Follow industry-accepted professional, ethical and business standards to optimize safety and reduce liability
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Professional Standards
- Apply the ACSM code of ethics
- Understand scope of practice boundaries
- Explain informed consent, assumption of risk and waivers
- Maintain confidentiality and privacy of participant information
- Understand insurance and business principles for GEIs
Respond to emergencies to minimize untoward events by following procedures consistent with established standards of care and facility policies
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Emergency Response
- Administer CPR and AED appropriately
- Provide basic first aid for exercise-related emergencies
- Follow emergency action plans
- Document incidents and emergencies properly
- Activate EMS when appropriate
Respect copyrights to protect original and creative work, media, etc., by legally securing copyright material and other intellectual property
Knowledge and Skill Statements for Copyright Compliance
- Understand copyright laws including BMI and ASCAP
- Apply fair use principles appropriately
- Acquire copyrighted materials legally
How do I earn this certification?
Passing ACSM-GEI earns the ACSM Certified Group Exercise Instructor (ACSM-GEI) certification. It sits in the Health & Fitness track.
Current Level Exams
ACSM-CPT - ACSM Certified Personal TrainerFor fitness professionals working one-on-one with clients to design and implement exercise programs
Next Level Options
- ACSM-EP - ACSM Certified Exercise PhysiologistAdvanced certification for exercise science professionals working with apparently healthy individuals and those with controlled chronic diseases
- ACSM-CEP - ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise PhysiologistClinical-level certification for professionals managing exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases and complex health needs
Alternative Paths
- ACE Group Fitness Instructor (ACE-GFI) Alternative group fitness certification from another NCCA-accredited organization
- AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Another popular NCCA-accredited group fitness certification
- NASM Certified Group Fitness Instructor (NASM-CGFI) Group fitness certification with emphasis on corrective exercise principles
- ISSA Group Exercise Instructor Online-focused group fitness certification option
Practice with Precision
The PlanetCert Simulator mirrors the real exam environment with authentic questions and timed pressure.
How to study for this exam?
The most effective way to prepare for ACSM-GEI is by using the PlanetCert Simulator to practice questions and review detailed explanations.
What's changed on this exam?
Current Status
- ACTIVE
- Last content update: 2025-07-10
Updates
- GETP 12th Edition 12th Edition All ACSM certification exams now reflect GETP 12 content. Updated exercise testing and prescription guidelines affect Class Design and Instruction domains. • Release date: 2025-07-10
- 2024 Job Task Analyses (JTAs) 2024 Updated JTAs reflect greater clarity in professional competencies with stronger emphasis on effective communication with clients and interdisciplinary care teams. • Release date: 2025-07-10
- Online Proctoring via Pearson VUE Current Candidates can take the ACSM-GEI exam remotely from home, office, or workplace through Pearson VUE online proctoring.
Who should take this exam?
18 years of age or older
High school diploma or equivalent
Current adult CPR/AED certification
First Aid certification (starting 2027)
- Experience participating in or leading group exercise classes
- Understanding of basic exercise science concepts
- Mentorship under an experienced certified GEI